6.1.2

Changes in Number of Subatomic Particles

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Changes in Number of Subatomic Particles

When an atom gains or loses electrons, the nucleus does not change. This means the atomic mass and the atomic number stay the same.

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Cations

  • If an ion is positive, it has fewer electrons than protons.
    • A 1+ charge means 1 less electron than proton (e.g. Na+).
    • A 2+ charge means 2 less electrons than protons (Ca2+).
Illustrative background for AnionsIllustrative background for Anions ?? "content

Anions

  • If an ion is negative, it has more electrons than protons.
    • A 1- charge means 1 more electron than proton (e.g. Cl-).
    • A 2- charge means 2 more electrons than protons (O2-).

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Elements, Compounds & Mixtures

3Atomic Structure

4The Periodic Table

5Chemical Formulae, Equations & Calculations

6Bonding

7Electrolysis

8Groups of the Periodic Table

9The Atmosphere

10Reactivity Series

11Metal Extraction

12Acids & Alkalis

13Chemical Tests

14Physical Chemistry

15Organic Chemistry

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